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More about Fátima, Portugal

Whether you’re there as part of a pilgrimage or simply as a humble observer, there’s an undeniable presence in Fátima. This Portuguese town is considered holy ground; in the summer of 1917 it was the site where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared. Since then, it’s one of the most sacred destinations to visit in Europe. Travel to this divine destination with us and discover the power of Fátima.

Why visit Fátima

Religious Sites

Listen carefully as your local expert tells you the story of the three peasant children who had several visions of the Virgin Mary. These apparitions have shaped most of what you’ll see as you explore Fátima. Visiting the following sacred places will allow you to fully appreciate the religious presence of this holy place.

Sanctuary of Fátima

Visit the awe-inspiring complex considered to be one of the most revered shines in Catholicism, the Sanctuary of Fatima. Upon entering this religious compound, you’ll see a vast esplanade complete with an impressive fountain spouting holy water and two impressively grand churches at either end. Don’t be surprised to see guests shuffling on their knees to the spot where Mary appeared – the historic oak tree and Chapel of the Apparitions.

The Chapel of the Apparitions

The soul of the Sanctuary of Fatima is found at the Chapel of the Apparitions. There, you’ll learn that of the six apparitions the children saw, five occurred here. Through Her instruction to the children, the chapel was built and has since remained mostly true to its original structure.

Casa Jacinta e Francisco Marto

Travel to the nearby village of Aljustrel to see the humble home of Jacinta and Francisco Marto, the two siblings who were said to have seen the Virgin Mary. See the abode that housed the two saintly shepherds and learn how their lives came to an untimely end. Just a short distance further you can visit the third shepherd and cousin of the Marto children, Lúcia de Jesus dos Santos.

Valinhos Sanctuary

Follow in the saintly steps of the three young shepherds as you make your way from Aljustrel to the Valinhos Sanctuary. If you wish, pray the Stations of the Cross as you walk through serene pathways leading to this simple monument atop a short hill. Marvel in the preservation of this land, lined with olive and oak trees. We suggest taking the day to visit this place of deep faith and introspection.

Museums

If your journey has inspired you to seek out more knowledge on Fátima’s religious past, then the town’s museums may be perfect for you. Many of Fátima’s museums serve to better connect guests with the story of Christ and the holy events that occurred in this humble Portuguese town. Here’s our collection of some must-see museums in Fátima.

Museu Vida de Cristo

See the life of Christ in a new, unique way as you visit Fátima’s Museu Vida de Cristo. More than 200 wax characters depict the life of Christ in 33 different scenes ranging from the Annunciation to the Ascension. We suggest visiting here after seeing the nearby Sanctuary of Fátima.

Museu Interativo

Immerse yourself in the holy story of the Apparitions and visit Fátima’s Museu Interativo. Interact with 4D figures of the Angel of Portugal, Our Lady of Fatima and the Miracle of the Sun to further connect to the shepherds’ visions. This enthralling experience is not to be missed.

Museu de Arte Sacra e Etnologia

Learn of Portugal’s integral role in shaping the modern Catholic faith with a visit to this sacred museum. View displays of maps, photographs, and pieces of art from around the world as you trace the roots of Christianity.

House-Museum of Aljustrel

Take a moment to learn about the sacred village of Aljustrel with a visit to this museum. Travel back in time to the first decades of the twentieth century as you learn of the events that shaped Fátima. We suggest this museum for a better understanding of the time in which these little shepherds lived.

Attractions

While many of Fátima’s major attractions are faith-based, not all that you can see here is focused on the town’s holy reputation. Explore a stately castle, explore a paleontological site, or navigate a network of caves – your local guide can suggest a variety of enthralling spots. And if you’re hungry, there’s plenty of Portuguese fare to keep you satisfied.

Monumento Natural das Pegadas de Dinossaurio

Take a day trip to the nature park Serras de Aire and encounter something truly from another time. Imagine walking amongst the dinosaurs as you witness the world’s largest and most important collection of sauropod footprints. For a short diversion from your pilgrimage, we recommend visiting this fascinating site.

Grutas da Moeda

As you tour this geological gem, the local guide will likely tell you of its accidental discovery and the legend behind its name. Marvel at this remarkable earthly creation as you explore limestone galleries like the “Shepherd’s Room”, “Flawed Chapel,” and “Nativity Scene.” With a constant temperature of 18°C (about 64°F) all year round, the caves are a hospitable and safe destination to visit any time.

Ourém Castle

High above the modern-day town of Ourém is the hilltop abode of Count Afonso. Step back into time as you tour the sprawling castle grounds completely rebuilt in the 15th century using typical Italian military architectural styles of the time. If you have proper walking shoes on, we suggest you head to the top to see panoramic views.

Cuisine

After a powerful day touring faith-based sites, you’ll certainly want to get your fill of Portuguese food and drink. The heritage of Fátima is infused through dishes like savoury migas, silky sheep’s cheese, cured Serrano ham, and delicious walnut cake. We suggest dining in the old quarter for truly authentic cuisine.

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